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Five replacements for De Gea at Manchester United

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly interested in offloading young goalkeeper David De Gea.

The Spaniard’s performances have been inconsistent and, whilst he’s improved this season, he’s still not acquired the command of his area necessary for a title-winning side.

Pepe Reina is linked with interest from a number of clubs, including United but whether Liverpool would let him go to a rival of their stature is debatable. At 30 years of age, he’s no spring chicken but his experience and self-assurance is exactly what United need between the sticks right now.

Similarly, Asmir Begovic has been the stopper behind the tightest defensive unit in the league this season. The 25-year-old Bosnian has all the attributes of a top keeper and could quite easily be lured away from the Britannia by the prospect of a move to Old Trafford. If United were prepared to offer a decent sum, Stoke would likely grant his departure.

Neil Lennon would be reluctant to lose his young English keeper but Fraser Forster’s performances against Barcelona this season in the Champions League caught the attention of every major club across the continent. The 24-year-old would be an excellent investment and is likely to become a genuine contender to rival Joe Hart for the England number one spot.

Synonymously, Birmingham’s Jack Butland is one of England’s rising stars. At just 19, his best is yet to come and Birmingham’s financial troubles mean he’ll likely be sold this year. Liverpool, Arsenal, Fulham and Southampton are all tracking his availability.

Finally, Sunderland’s Simon Mignolet is another one of the Premier League’s top Belgian imports. The 24-year-old has been one of Martin O’Neill’s key players in the last year and would, if nothing more, be certainly be an improvement on David De Gea.

Jenny Leigh

Jennifer is a freelance writer and filmmaker from London with a great passion for football - the game, the business, and the culture. Jennifer hopes to provide readership with a high standard of news, analysis, and opinion over a range of football events, stories, and issues.